How much is known about the relationship between Sam Clemens and Lillie
Hitchcock from his days as a reporter in San Francisco.  I can find one
reference to her in his letters.  However, Hitchcock's personal biography
appears strikingly similar to Twain's Hellfire Hotchkiss character --
particularly the fire department involvement.  Any theories as to whether
Hellfire Hotchkiss was based on Lillie Hitchcock?

Barb